How to Give and Receive Compliments at Work (2024)

FAQs

How to receive a compliment at work? ›

Complimenting the achievements of the entire team is a great thing to do, but it is also important to focus your praise on one single person at times. Be specific. Say exactly what you admire or appreciate in the other person. Don't just say 'you're such a great colleague'.

Accept a compliment with a simple, “Thank you.” Or, express your gratitude by saying, “That's so sweet of you, thank you.” Acknowledge your abilities graciously. Instead of saying, “Thanks, I know,” say, “Thank you. I put a lot of effort into this so I'm glad you liked it.”

Some like to be praised publicly for all to see. More reserved employees appreciate quieter, private recognition.

To avoid sounding patronising, focus on being sincere and specific about what you're complimenting. Mention the behaviour or result, rather than just saying something general.

(“You did a good job at …” or “You really did well in ….”) Smile and be enthusiastic when you give compliments. It makes the other person feel that you really mean it. Be appropriate: Consider the setting and your relationship with the person.

Compliments can provoke anxiety in people with low self-esteem, because the compliments challenge their self-views and make them feel misunderstood. The fear of being evaluated negatively is also heightened in people with social anxiety disorder. But even for others, an unexpected compliment can be destabilising.

How to reply if someone appreciates your work? ›

“Thank you so much. Your positive feedback is very much appreciated.” “I'm flattered by your words. Let's keep up the good work together!”

Neuroscientists have shown that verbal affirmations light up the same areas of the brain as a monetary reward does. Compliments are especially effective in workplace environments. Praise and gratitude by seniors can keep up morale, make the employees feel valued, and mitigate the effect of stress on them.

It's sort of simple: just say, “Thank you.” If you want to get a little fancier, you could reflect back. “It was nice of you to take the time to recognize me. Thank you.” Or, “Thank you. I appreciate it.” Or “Thank you, that was thoughtful of you to say.” You could acknowledge the team effort.

In professional scenarios, it's paramount to use suitable phrases and maintain a respectful demeanor when replying “thank you”. Various phrases can be used, including “I am pleased to have been of help”, “It was my pleasure”, or a simple “you're welcome”, depending on the situation's formality and the recipient.